Local mom and her children graduate from AWC

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Arizona Western College (AWC) says a local mom and her two children earned associate degrees during last week's graduation ceremony.

Maria Molina, according to AWC, is currently working at the college as an "Administrative Assistant in the Facilities Department."

Her daughter, Brianda Molina, graduated with an associate degree in Business while her son, Luis, graduated "from the Early College program with an Associate of Science" and "will be celebrating his graduation from Gila Ridge High School later this week."

"I would never have thought I would be honored to walk the line beside my children," Molina shared. "Becoming a mom at a young age, my goal was always to push my children to their full potential. As much as I annoyed them, I told them daily that the sky is beyond the limit and anything and everything is possible. While I was telling them, my husband was telling me. I am beyond proud of my babies."

After earning their associate degrees respectively, the Molinas shared the following plans to continue their education:

• Luis is planning to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida this fall to pursue a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering.
• Maria will continue studying at AWC, with her pursuing an Occupational Certificate in Logistics before transferring to NAU to complete a Bachelor's in Logistics & Supply Chain Management.
• Brianda will also continue studying at AWC, with her seeking an Associates in Applied Science in Welding with plans to join the U.S. Air Force.

To learn more about their story, and if anyone wants to learn more about programs at AWC, read the press release below.